Melburn Haskell Davidson

Melburn "Mel" Haskell Davidson, age 86, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2026.

Mel was born March 18, 1939, to Johnie and Edith (Craig) Davidson. During his childhood, his family traveled frequently for his father's work, living in several states before eventually returning to Oklahoma, where Mel spent most of his life. He lived many of his adult years in Springdale, Arkansas, before moving back to Tahlequah, Oklahoma, where he spent his later years on the Davidson family property in Eldon.

Mel was a hardworking and talented man who wore many hats throughout his life. His work included carpentry, electrical work, over-the-road truck driving, property management, and owning several businesses. However, the work closest to his heart was music.

A gifted musician, Mel loved playing guitar and singing bluegrass and gospel music. Alongside his wife, Marie, he spent many years traveling and performing at various venues, sharing their love of music with others. In his later years, Mel became a master luthier and gained recognition in the music community for his exceptional skill in restoring and repairing string instruments. His craftsmanship and dedication made him well known among musicians who trusted him with their treasured instruments.

Mel was first married to Judy Gordon, and from that union three children were born: Faron, Donna, and Melanie. He later married Mary Butler, and together they had one daughter, Anita. On April 10, 1996, Mel married the love of his life, Marie, in Springdale, Arkansas. They were members of the Proctor First Baptist Church where they played worship music. They shared many happy years together filled with music, family, and faith.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Johnie and Edith Davidson; his brother, Johnnie Lee Davidson; his sisters, Kathy Shankle and Ruth Ann Spears; Stepson Kenneth Wade; and Stepdaughter's in-law; Linda Wade and Misty Wade.

Mel is survived by his loving wife, Marie Davidson, of the home; his children: Faron Davidson of Tahlequah; Donna Solzak and significant other Francisco of Tahlequah; Melanie Grayson and husband William of Tahlequah; and Anita Christie of Tahlequah. Stepchildren; Jim Wade and Scott Wade of Arkansas; He is also survived by his grandchildren: Faron Davidson Jr. and wife Sonya, Wade Davidson, Christina Vaughnand significant other Bobby, Nathan Solzak and fiancé' Jenna, Jimmy Thomas and significant other Marsha, Rebecca (Thomas) Henry and husband Tony, Paige Spencer, Arielle Barnett, and John Thomas Christie II and significant other Molly; StepGrandchildren; Kaleb Wade, Chris Wade, Raymond Wade, Spencer Wade and Lacey Gulledge, Lashanda Toothman; his great-grandchildren: Addilyn Davidson, Daxton Thomas, Averee Grayson, Kingston Spencer, Zayne Spencer, Finley Sordo and Genevieve Christie; Step Great Grandchildren; Wyatt, Katalina, Samantha, Charlie Grace and Rylan Glen and a host of nieces and nephews.

Mel will be remembered for his deep love of music, his skilled hands, his strong work ethic, and the lasting legacy he leaves through his family and the instruments he restored for musicians far and wide.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mel will be laid to rest at Shirley Cemetery in Eldon, Oklahoma.